I cant believe this shit, this is the 1st aircraft that has a hard kill APS system before the idea of MSDM was to be applied to the F-35. This aircraft is a attack choice of option for Ukraine.
Source: Tu-160M will be the first aircraft with reverse launch missiles
Source RIA Novosti: Tu-160M will be the world's first aircraft with reverse launch missiles
MOSCOW, February 4-RIA Novosti. The upgraded Tu-160M strategic bomber will become the world's first aircraft with reverse launch missiles - they are capable of intercepting targets located "behind its back", a source in the aircraft industry told RIA Novosti.
As reported, the first built from scratch strategic bomber-missile carrier Tu-160M made its debut 30-minute flight on January 12 this year. The new aircraft received upgraded engines, updated avionics and avionics, as well as new weapons control systems.
"The first newly manufactured Tu-160M is equipped with a rear-view radar station, which will allow the aircraft to use so-called reverse launch missiles for self-defense against air-to-air, surface-to-air missiles and fighters. Such air-to-air missiles will target targets in the rear hemisphere, that is, those located "behind" the Tu - 160M, according to the target designation of the bomber's tail radar, "the source said.
The source added that " the use of rear-view radar on heavy bombers is most appropriate, since these are low-maneuverable vehicles that simply may not have time to turn their nose to the enemy."
On the basic version of the Tu-160, there is no tail radar. The source also clarified that reverse launch missiles can hit targets in the front hemisphere. When hitting targets in the rear hemisphere, according to target designation from the tail radar, they turn 180 degrees in flight.